Home repairs can be a hassle, but they’re an inevitable part of owning a house. While some fixes may seem daunting, many are straightforward and don’t require professional help. In this article, we’ll explore 16 simple repairs you can tackle on your own to save money.
Gutter Cleaning
Clogged gutters lead to expensive water damage, so you have to make sure they are done properly, and when blocked, they should be fixed immediately. Good Housekeeping recommends getting in there with a gloved hand to make sure you get all the gunk out.
Sticking Doors
Whether it’s humidity, loose hinges, or frame issues, sticking doors can usually be fixed easily. For example, you can sand the door with some sanding paper, and it won’t stick anymore. Tight hinges just need the right lubricant, and they will come back to life.
Leaky Taps
Many people overlook the drip of a leaky tap, not realizing the potential savings from a simple DIY repair. This Old House says, “There are four kinds of faucets: cartridge, compression, ceramic disk, and ball type,” all of which you will find easy DIY repair videos for online.
Running Toilets
A running toilet can waste gallons of water daily, but with basic tools, you can fix it quickly and prevent unnecessary water bills. The key is identifying the cause, such as a faulty flapper or fill valve. Then get on YouTube and find yourself a quick tutorial, and that’s it.
Drafty Windows
Drafty windows can significantly increase your heating costs, which is why sealing them properly is a must. Before calling someone you’ll have to pay, try applying weatherstripping or caulk to seal any leaks. Also, consider using heavier curtains to seal in more warmth.
Clogged Drains
Before calling a plumber, try some home remedies that are effective and less harmful to your pipes. The Spruce’s fast and simple method is one cup of baking soda followed by one cup of vinegar; after you send these down the drain, wait five minutes, and then turn on the hot water. This should help with your clogged drains.
Peeling Paint
Peeling paint is not just an eyesore but also a sign of neglect that can easily be remedied with proper preparation and care. To prevent peeling, select high-quality durable paint. If you choose to paint, make sure to clean and sand thoroughly before painting.
Squeaky Floors
Squeaky floors can be annoying, yet they often indicate a simple fix that doesn’t require professional help. Simply find the exact spot and cause of the noise. Quick fixes for squeaky floors include using talcum powder or lubricant to seal or lubricate the gaps.
Loose Tiles
Loose tiles in your bathroom or kitchen are not only dangerous but also very hard to look at. With just one tile loose, there is no need to call an expensive repairman. Get the right tile adhesive and get to work.
Cracked Concrete
Cracked concrete is not only unattractive but can also be a tripping hazard. Make sure to choose the right filler for different types and sizes of cracks. Angi says that DIYers tend to add too much water to their mix, so try to avoid this when making your concrete.
Faulty Door Knobs
Most doorknob problems are easy to fix yourself. Sometimes, tightening the screws is all it takes. Other times, you might need to replace the whole knob. If you’re worried about safety, consider getting a new doorknob that’s harder for strangers to open.
Damaged Roof Shingles
Broken roof shingles can let water into your home, which can cause expensive damage. It’s important to spot any damage early and repair it to avoid leaks. You can patch up small problems yourself, but if there’s a lot of damage, it’s best to call in the pros.
Worn Weather Stripping
Weather stripping around your doors and windows is crucial for keeping your heating and cooling bills down. When it wears out, your home can lose a lot of energy. The good news is that replacing old weather stripping is straightforward and doesn’t cost much. A little effort here can lead to significant savings on your energy bills.
Scratched Wood Floors
Wood floors are notorious for scratching. For small scratches, repair kits available at hardware stores can do the trick. If your floors have deeper scratches, though, you might need to consider professional refinishing. To keep your floors looking their best, it’s also important to take preventive steps, like using furniture pads.
Aging Appliances
With regular maintenance, you can often extend an appliance’s life and delay the need for costly replacements. Simple actions like cleaning and minor repairs can keep appliances running smoothly. Knowing when to fix an appliance versus when to replace it can also save you money in the long run. However, upgrading to a more efficient model can be more economical than pouring money into an old one.